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Thanksgiving is upon us. This time last year I was setting a far smaller table than in previous years. I've hosted as many as 20 for Thanksgiving dinner, which is a lot given that my immediate family members number five and most everyone else I'm related to by blood or marriage live about as far from my table as could be. Thanksgiving being an American holiday, on the rare occasions that we've had family over from Europe in November, they've very much enjoyed our version of turkey day without all the extra layers of Christmas.
I always thought it would be nice to host a bunch of students who were far from home and did so for several years when my youngest son, Dom, was a student at UC Davis.
2020 was a different story for all of us. And it was a beautiful day weather-wise, so at our house, we set up outside and enjoyed a long walk, followed by a more intimate gathering of six in the afternoon sunshine.
This year we're back up to nine. It'll be an outdoor gathering if the weather permits. One of the positive aspects of the pandemic era has been that we're more inclined to give ourselves, our hosts, family members and our guests permission to mix things up — a little, or a lot, when it comes to holiday entertaining.
It really is fun to hear of the many different ways that friends plan to celebrate the day, or not, if it's a quiet day of contemplation in giving thanks that appeals. I reached out on social media to find out what kind of festivities are afoot.
Here's what's in the mix:
"We're mixing it up this year, and having dessert first and early! Everyone wants a different pie flavor; all of the great pie makers are too busy to fit us in for delivery on the day, so.... we're having dessert this Saturday, with 7 mini pies. I can't wait for this pie-extravaganza."
Sue D
"We do the traditional Thanksgiving meal on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. On Thanksgiving Day we might go to the beach or to the city or the east bay for Chinese Food. Out of town family members often travel on Thanksgiving Day cuz it’s cheaper and less crowded."
Val R
"Return to tradition"
Tamara A
"I am hoping to dine outside, we do every year. it is one of my favorites, Autumn in CA."
Allison W.M.
"Spending the day with my family for the first time in over a year & half. I am making a traditional thanksgiving dinner..3 days later Chanukah starts this year."
Julie P
"Yes first Thanksgiving with my moral vegetarian father and our family of four in Las Vegas. I will have all the usual side dishes of course . But food will not be the focus- instead family and good times and may be a little casino show for the fun."
Heidi A
"Driving north to Moms for a small family gathering. Still sensitive to the pandemic so not the extended family yet. Ham dinner ordered in and bringing a few special sides and deserts! Hanging with 91 year old Mom is the centerpiece!"
Jane S
"Love April Pantry in Petaluma & we’re having them cater a traditional Tday dinner instead of this mom cooking the traditional Tday dinner all by herself. Still immediate fam only like last year (5 adults & a 2-y-o ) to keep it safe."
Leslie C
"We are meeting a group of about 25-30 Expats at a restaurant called Malandrinos in Orvieto. The chef will prepare the turkey, potatoes and stuffing and many will bring their favorite American dishes. This will be our first Thanksgiving out of California."
Margaret V
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